Charles (Harold) Ray left his earthly home on November 13th, 2020, at the age of ninety-six. He was a noble man dedicated to his family and known for his honesty, integrity, and sense of humor. Harold resided in Huntsville, Alabama, for more than sixty years.
Born on August 12th, 1924, in Elmore County, Alabama, to Clyde Jackson Ray and Flora Lee Sanders Ray, Harold was the middle child of five boys. Finishing high school at the age of sixteen, he attended Auburn University before serving in the Army in World War II’s Pacific Theater. After the war, he returned to Auburn and finished his electrical engineering degree.
On December 29th, 1949, he married Priscilla Cooper. He worked for TVA before accepting a position with the Army Missile Command in Huntsville.
Always active in the Baptist Church, he served as a deacon for many years. His many hobbies included water-skiing, playing volleyball, jigsaw puzzles, and cheering for the Auburn Tigers. Additionally, he was known for his work as a proficient handyman.
Harold retired in 1979 but stayed very active. He dedicated his later years to his family; he especially enjoyed babysitting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife of almost seventy-one years, Priscilla Cooper Ray, and his three children, Charles Harold Ray, Jr. (Linda), Virginia Thompson (Noble), Carol Revels (Steve). He is also survived by his eight grandchildren, Scott Morse (Heather), Brian Thompson (Elizabeth), Amanda Vaughan (Edwin), Wayne Thompson (Sharon), Ryan Revels (Lauren), Rob Revels (Ashley), Kate Stitcher (Cody), and Riley Revels (Katelynn), and his eight great-grandchildren, Madalyn, Keegan, Tristan, George, Dash, Hugh, Anna, and Logan (Shelby). Other survivors include his brothers, Morris Ray and Doug Ray, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, James Ray and Reginald Ray.
A private graveside funeral will be held for the family with a memorial service planned for a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to First Baptist Church Huntsville or to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
